Giving off real Scandi vibes, I would say Hobart is Australia's seafood frontier. You can certainly see the maritime influence on the city and harbour which gives it its unique charm. A city overlooked by many but certainly not one to be missed, Hobart should be high on your list when planning your Tassie adventure. Here are three awesome things to do while in Hobart.
Perhaps one of Hobart's biggest claims to fame is Salamanca Place ($ - $$). You might have heard of it or seen a photo on promotional material for Tasmania, and rightfully so, this is Hobart's coolest downtown district. Try a Tasmanian Rock Lobster Roll at the pub, find yourself a treasured souvenir or chat with some friendly locals. You'd be forgiven for thinking you just walked through a time warp back to early 1800s Australia because that's what it looks like!
The buildings have been well maintained over the years to look almost identical to
what the convicts built when Tasmania was settled by Europeans. Don't forget to catch the Salamanca Market on Saturdays from 8:30am - 3pm.
Salamanca Place is approximately a 5-minute walk from Hobart CBD so very accessible to those staying in the city!
Tasmania is quickly becoming another cultural hotspot in Australia and this is evident when visiting the famed MONA museum ($$) or TMAG ($). See a variety of old and new art at MONA and be educated on the Tasmanian Tiger, European Settlement and Aboriginal history in Tasmania, Australia's Antarctic expeditions and more at TMAG.
Getting to TMAG is a leisurely 5-minute walk from Hobart CBD and you can get to MONA by catching a 25-minute ferry from Brooke Street Pier or driving 15 minutes by car.
Enjoy panoramic views of Hobart and beyond from the top of Mount Wellington (kunanyi) ($), elevated at 1270m. Hike your way through the temperate forest along historic walking trails and soak up the beauty of Tasmania. A must-see for those who enjoy getting some fitness in on their travels.
A leisurely 30-minute drive from Hobart CBD will get you to the Mount Wellington car park where an epic hike lays ahead.
Where to stay?
Lucky for, well, everyone, there's plenty of accommodation options in Hobart these days. These are my top picks to suit all budgets:
Budget - Mid Range
Rydges Hotel Hobart ($$) is slightly out of the CBD but comfortable for a modest price point.
The Mantra on Collins ($$) is a great option for those wanting to be central but also wanting space as this hotel offers decent-sized suites with kitchenette facilities.
RACV Hobart ($$) is another great, central option offering modern facilities.
Spoil yourself
MACq 01 ($$$) is one of Hobart's swankiest and offers waterside accommodation.
For art lovers, The Henry Jones Art Hotel ($$$) is the perfect option with its unique art-inspired interiors and harbour-side location.
A special mention goes out to The Whaler, located in Salamanca place for their delightful Tasmanian Rock Lobster Rolls and perhaps the best parmy in Australia (in my humble opinion of course).
I hope this helps with your Hobart planning! Stay tuned for more travel guides and check out @thedeparturedesk on socials.